Our verdict

updated Oct 21, 2023 Merrell, we had a greater sense of solid maneuverability, whether on moderately rocky trails or muddy footpaths. While a full-fledged day hiking boot, this immensely comfy offering is highly mobile. It also surprised us with a ton of support (particularly around the ankle). We just wish it's as fantastic at giving surefootedness as it is at staving off moisture.

Pros

  • Remarkably supportive
  • Fantastic grip level
  • Pillow-like plushness
  • Zero break-in
  • Run-able flexibility
  • Lightweight
  • Warm in wintry conditions
  • Above-average stability

Cons

  • Questionable waterproofing
  • Subpar breathability
  • Its lugs get caked with mud easily

Audience verdict

83
Good!

Who should buy the Cozy with a catch

The Cozy with a catch is a tough mid-top that promotes traversal agility. Buy it if:

  • You're drawn to hiking boots that give wobbly ankles a stable hold.
  • You often find yourself hiking in the cold.
  • The areas you hike in have cambered parts where extra braking power is most welcome.

Cozy with a catch buyd

Its lugs get caked with mud easily

If you want something that grants excellent water protection without breathability issues, the Fairbanks Mid from Columbia is a great alternative. And if you're looking for a pair that sheds mud and debris as you go, the KEEN Pyrenees is for you.

Cozy with a catch noc

Stupendous in the support category

These shoes are so supportive there's noticeably less foot fatigue at the end of the long hike! And there was absolutely no hint of ankle wobbliness! A perfect 10 for the support, for sure.

Cozy with a catch suppb

Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof

We expected a good grip on these, but not a superb grip. On hard packed trails, on soft ground, even on somewhat rocky trails - these were super sticky. 

Cozy with a catch gripc

Beware though, the lugs seem to be too close to each other. Mud gets stuck there and then it's goodbye grip! 

Cozy with a catch gripa

Something with extraordinary comfort

There's no break-in period. These are super comfy straight out of the box. And the comfort level is just un-be-lie-va-ble!

And look at that tongue. When the terrain got super demanding, we had to tighten the laces. And we felt absolutely no lace bite - thanks to this pillow of the tongue. So padded and so comfy!

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Nimble feet in the Cozy with a catch

We just adore the featured kick's combination of lightness and flexibility. We were even able to actually run in these properly. They are flexible enough which is great.

Cozy with a catch lightflex

that give wobbly ankles a stable hold

This is not a waterproof shoe. The water got in too easily, even when we were just hiking over some wet grass. Too bad. 

Cozy with a catch wet

Cozy with a catch

This shoe works better as a winter shoe. It keeps the heat in, which worked great for us. However, when we tested the shoe in somewhat warmer weather, our feet sweat. More than we liked. 

Such a stable platform

The Cozy with a catch gives just the right amount of balance on rugged terrain. It's a perfect combination of comfort and stability.